Kingston Technology announced that it has created the world’s first 128GB flash drive – named the DataTraveler 200 or DT200. It is part of a colorful series available in three sizes: 32GB in blue or black for $120, 64GB in yellow and black for $213, and finally the 128GB version available only in black. Expect it to be pricey. The outlay has been quoted at $546 so you’ll have to decide if it is worth it.

The USB drive comes with a 5 year warranty and 24/7 support. You can freeze it or toast it, as it is said to operate between 0 and 60 degrees Celsius. A small, but appreciated feature is the capless design which protects the connector when it is not being used.

More importantly, the DT200 includes Password Traveler security software for Windows. Andrew Ewing, USB Business Manager, emphasized that: “The password protection helps safeguard data and requires no admin rights, making the DT200 a terrific solution for the home or office.”

This stick works with Windows XP, 2000, Vista, and ReadyBoost, as well as with Mac OS X v.10.3 and Linux 2.6. However, although the DT200 is set for Windows ReadyBoost on Vista based systems, it won’t work if ReadyBoost is enabled on the drive – it must be cached on a separate drive.

Kingston is a company whose products you should be able to depend upon. It has been around for more than 20 years, and has grown from one product to over 2,000, and employs more than 4,500 individuals. Early on, in 1992, they were ranked #1 by Inc. magazine as the fastest-growing privately held company in America. For five years, they were on Fortune’s list of “100 Best Companies to Work For”. Their revenues have continued to climb – in 2007, they exceeded $4.5 billion.